Energy Policies of IEA Countries: Netherlands 2014
Since the last review in 2008, the Netherlands has attracted investment in oil and
gas storage; coal, oil and gas import terminals; and efficient power plants. This
additional capacity provides flexibility and energy security both in the Netherlands
and across EU markets. However, the outlook for Europe’s second-largest producer of
natural gas is challenging amid declining gas production and uncertain prospects for
unconventional gas. Developing the remaining natural gas potential, the market integration
and ensuring the security of supply and resilience of the energy infrastructure during
the transition should be top priorities.
The Netherlands stimulates energy efficiency and innovation in energy-intensive industries
along the whole supply chain, notably in the Dutch refining, petrochemical and agriculture
sectors, a practice that contributes to industrial competitiveness.
Despite successful decoupling of greenhouse-gas emissions from economic growth between
1990 and 2012, however, the Netherlands remains one of the most fossil-fuel- and CO2-intensive
economies among IEA countries. In September 2013, the Netherlands reached an agreement
with key stakeholders on priority actions to support sustainable economic growth through
2020. In addition to implementing the agreement, the government must set the scene
for a stable policy framework up to 2030, which is also crucial for renewable energies.
The Netherlands has accelerated permit procedures for new energy infrastructure and
is driving technology cost reduction with reformed renewable support. The country
can benefit from further interconnections with neighbouring countries, as renewables
become an integral part of wholesale and balancing electricity markets in the EU.
This review analyses the energy policy challenges currently facing the Netherlands,
and provides recommendations for each sector. It gives advice on implementing the
Energy Agreement and how to leverage international opportunities from clean energy
technologies. It is only available in PDF format.
Published on April 22, 2014
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